User Anonymous

Gap Year in Jaipur, India

Unearth a treasure trove of experiences with a gap year in the ‘pink city’ of Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, India. Whether you're taking an internship or volunteering, during your time in Jaipur you will be immersed into India’s fascinating history and culture.

You will live in a city where ornately decorated elephants wander the streets amongst the chaotic traffic of tuk tuks, rickshaws, mopeds, and cars. A city where master craftsmen ply their trade as they have done for centuries in the shops and amongst the havelis nestled within the pink city walls.

There is plenty to see and do to fill your gap year both in and around Jaipur.

Internships

There are many types of internships available in Jaipur in the I.T, textile, and business communities.

India has always been at the forefront of I.T. development and communication so if you want to expand your knowledge in programming skills or even robotics, then Jaipur is the place to head.

Like a lot of India, the textile industry is vast, so if fashion or interior design is your thing then you can’t go far wrong in Jaipur especially when you see the inspiring fabrics available at such bargain prices in the shops within the city walls.

World Endeavours internships are based in Jaipur and cover media, fashion and culinary arts. They can also assist with accommodation and cultural immersion.

Volunteering

While in Jaipur, you may prefer to do voluntary work. Like many Indian cities, Jaipur also has areas of extreme poverty.

For something a little different, Volunteer India hosts volunteers for theater workshops in schools. Alternatively, if animal welfare is more your thing, the same organization can arrange for you to take care of Jaipur’s working elephants.

What visas do I need?

are required for most nationalities entering India together with an onward ticket and sufficient funds to support your visit. Dependent on the purpose and length of you visit you may need to apply for a student, business, tourist, or employment visa.

Should I learn the local language in Japiur?

English is widely used in the business community but learning a few words of Hindi will help, particularly if you're planning to do voluntary work with children during your gap year.

How expensive is a gap year in Jaipur?

You can live in Jaipur, along with most elsewhere in India, relatively cheaply and ATMs are widely available. The cheapest way of getting around is by rickshaw. Everything is negotiable, so be sure to fix a price before setting off.

There are plentiful vegetable and spice markets in Jaipur where you can stock up on supplies. If you do eat street food, it might be wise to go for the vegetarian options. The shops within the city walls sell practically everything, and if they don’t have it, they will know a man who does. Don’t forget to haggle, it’s part of the Indian culture and expected.

Any other tips for a gap year in Jaipur?

Women should always dress conservatively to avoid unwanted attention.

What are some not to miss sights in Jaipur?

While you're in Jaipur, don’t forget to see some of its major sites. It’s a city of forts, lakes and palaces. Learn about the Maharajas dynasties at The City Palace. Visit the Hawa Mahal ‘The Palace of the Winds’ where, from behind the ornate stone-carved screens, women of the royal household could watch the processions without being seen.

Jaipur is positively littered with UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the vast Amber Fort, its boundary walls snaking through the hills not too dissimilar to the Great Wall of China. The Jantar Mantar observatory looks more like a children’s playground; delve deeper here and you will understand how each of the instruments are aligned with stars and planets. Clever stuff considering it was built in 1783.

Last, but by no means least, whilst in Jaipur you must take advantage of its excellent transport connections and explore more of India. Pop across to Agra to see the incredible Taj Mahal; visit Udaipur, the city of lakes or jump on a train to Sawai Madhopur, gateway to Ranthambore National Park where you may even come face to face with a Bengal tiger.